The beginning of 2025's first international break comes at an opportune time for Leeds. While they are still leading the Championship before this round of matches, their position at the top may soon be in jeopardy.
In their recent games, Leeds only managed to secure five points out of the available 12, allowing Sheffield United and Burnley to increase the pressure as the promotion race heats up once more.
Leeds will be aiming to recover against Swansea on Saturday. However, the Swans, currently in 16th place and just six points above the relegation zone, are not out of danger yet. They are likely to put up a strong fight at Elland Road.
Team news
Leeds will be missing Maximilian Wober, while Willy Gnonto could be absent due to an ankle injury sustained while with Italy's under-21s. Patrick Bamford and Ethan Ampadu are back in training but their fitness for the upcoming match is uncertain.
For the Swans, Kristian Pedersen and Myles Peart-Harris remain long-term absentees. They will be hoping Harry Darling can recover in time to join the team.
The statistics
The previous encounter between the two teams ended in a thrilling 4-3 victory for Leeds, but the team's confidence may be dented following their recent dip in form.
Swansea has defeated Middlesbrough and Blackburn, both top-half teams, in recent weeks, while Leeds has seen goals from both sides in four of their last six matches.
Unlike before, where Leeds conceded only two goals in 11 home games, they have now allowed four goals in four matches at Elland Road.
Prediction
After Leeds' struggles last season, their fans may be anxious following the points dropped against West Brom, Portsmouth, and QPR.
With Sheffield United now level on points with Leeds after recent draws and defeats, the pressure is on. Leeds could fall three points behind their rivals if Sheffield United secures a win before Leeds' match on Saturday.
Although on paper Leeds should not find many difficulties against 16th-placed Swansea, the reverse fixture proved otherwise, with Leeds needing a late Gnonto goal to secure a win in a close 4-3 encounter.
Swansea, fighting to stay above the relegation zone, may present a challenge to Leeds, who have shown signs of instability. With both teams scoring in most of Leeds' recent matches, another thrilling game could be in store, potentially leading to Leeds facing further difficulties.